The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP

Deputy Leader of the Opposition

Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Development  

Readout of meeting with Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird

24 FEBRUARY 2014

CANBERRA

Today, Ms Plibersek was very pleased to meet with the Canadian Foreign Minister, John Baird, as part of his visit to Australia.

The Minister and Ms Plibersek discussed the importance of continuing a strong relationship between Australia and Canada.

Both the Minister and Ms Plibersek highlighted that our countries enjoy significant cultural, historical, and economic ties.

Foreign policy priorities we raised, including in relation to the Asia-Pacific where both countries play a major role.

On the subject of foreign aid, the Minister and Ms Plibersek agreed that a focus on gender based international development is critical to reducing poverty and improving opportunity across the globe.